Possibilities of Applying the Kaizen System for Improving Quality Management in the Context of ESG Development

Abstract

Due to tough competition both in national and global markets, changing consumer requirements, and ever more complex production, the introduction and maintenance of quality management systems at the enterprise level becomes mandatory. This study attempts to identify opportunities to improve the level of quality management through the introduction of the Kaizen approach in the Republic of Kazakhstan. The article aims at determining factors for continuous improvement in social, environmental, and corporate management and assessing their influence on the maturity of quality management. To achieve this objective, the authors use the research tool of a survey for evaluating the state of quality management and conducting a quantitative assessment of continuous improvement for 332 companies in Kazakhstan. To determine the relationship between ESG factors and quality management maturity, the authors apply a multiple spatial regression model. Based on the fundamentals of the Kaizen system and ESG principles, 12 variables are selected that contribute to the continuous improvement of environmental, social, and corporate management. The study results reveal three key factors that have a significant impact on the maturity of quality management by Kazakh enterprises: the use of low-waste and resource-saving technologies and equipment; the effective motivation of employees in favor of the Kaizen approach; the continuous development of personnel through life-long learning. These results can be useful to the top management of Kazakh enterprises in the continuous improvement of quality and resource distribution in terms of increasing the competitiveness of their products both in the domestic and foreign markets.